Veterans get round-the-clock counselling

Veterans who have patrolled Australia's borders looking for asylum seekers are among those who can now get online counselling if they are traumatised by their experience.

Veterans' Affairs Minister Michael Ronaldson launched the 24-hour counselling website at the South Australian RSL congress on Saturday.

Ex-military personnel who have undertaken border protection duties, served in a disaster zone in Australia or overseas, were involved in training accidents resulting in serious injury or were medically discharged are also among those who can use the site.

The service offers counselling, group programs and after-hours crisis support 24 hours a day.

The partners and children of eligible veterans can also use these services, along with family of military personnel killed during service.

The government is determined not to repeat mistakes of the past when it comes to supporting veterans' mental health, Senator Ronaldson said.

Meanwhile, Labor veterans spokesman David Feeney told the RSL congress the opposition would fight budget cuts affecting veterans.